The Jewel of Broad Street

MILFORD — Tom France, the owner of Golden Gifts Jewelry must have 14kt blood running through his veins because he has been a jeweler here in Milford for 25 years. Tom’s dad, Dan France, was also a jeweler and Tom apprenticed with him. Tom only has fine jewelry in the store, not costume jewelry. Golden Gifts takes pride in having a fine selection of 14kt gold items, diamonds, and sterling silver jewelry, as well. In addition, Tom France does more than just sell the jewelry. He knows his trade. He also repairs and custom designs jewelry. Tom’s customers trust his opinion, and his tasteful advice. Many a fellow has been in Tom’s shop for a gift (Christmas, Valentine, or Birthday) for their wives or girlfriends. The look of relief on the faces of these guys is clearly discernable when Tom suggests the perfect gift. He knows his customers and he knows his jewelry. Some of the items in the shop are gold chains, rings, pendants, diamonds, bracelets, and charms. There are diamond wedding rings as well. Tom also has Seiko and Pulsar watches. He sells watch batteries and watch bands, but doesn’t repair watches. Tom leaves that to Larry, the clock guy, (Clockworks) next door. If Tom doesn’t have an item, he can order it for you. One of the new items he is featuring is men’s stainless steel bracelets and pendants. They are more rugged than Sterling Silver. Tom says, ”They’re a good value, priced from $29-$79.” One of the most popular items is Journey Pendants. They symbolize one’s “journey” through life. Often these are given for anniversaries or sometimes for Christmas or Valentine’s Day. Generally Journey Pendants are five to seven diamonds graduated in size from smaller to larger and set vertically. They are worn on a short chain and lay perfectly on a woman’s neck. Another popular item is freshwater chocolate pearls. These are very unusual and Tom is offering a matching freshwater chocolate pearl necklace, bracelet, and earring set. Much of the jewelry business is seasonal. Toe rings and ankle chains are hot items in the spring. Sterling Silver and freshwater pearls are generally popular in spring and summer. Almost anything is appropriate for Valentine’s Day, but hearts trump everything else. He has diamond hearts, gold hearts, and even a heart-shaped diamond engagement ring. Tom’s wife Sheri often helps him out in the store, as does his “aunt” and long time family friend, Pam. Tom’s son is 17 and his daughter is 15, but they show no signs of going into the family business. One thing is certain however, Golden Gifts Jewelry is different from the big chains because of their service and quality and Tom France’s knowledge and expertise. The only chains you will find in his shop are precious. Golden Gifts Jewelry 319 Broad Street Milford PA 18337 Tel: 570-296-5388 Fax: 570-296-6190 Hours: Tuesday - Friday: 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday, 9:30 a.m.- 4 p.m., closed Mondays